Picture yourself at National Trust sites this summer

The National Trust is launching a ‘Picture Yourself in the Midlands’ photography competition to encourage children to enjoy the great outdoors.

From 1 to 26 August is the perfect time to explore National Trust sites with up to two children able to visit for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Vouchers can be downloaded from: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/kidsgofree and shown on entry to redeem the offer.

Throughout the summer, the conservation charity’s Midlands region hopes youngsters will visit its attractions armed with a camera to capture images of nature, landscapes or action shots of a brother or sister cartwheeling across the grass.

In Shropshire, inspiration can be taken from the miles of countryside and parkland to explore at Attingham Park, the Dudmaston Estate and Carding Mill Valley. There’s also beautiful gardens at Sunnycroft and Benthall Hall; and fantastic views from Wenlock Edge and the Long Mynd.

To enter the ‘Picture Yourself in the Midlands’ photography competition, images can be uploaded onto a new website via: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlandsfreshair

Winners of three different age categories will each receive a canvas reproduction of their photograph and the overall winner will also receive a first prize of a family day out at a National Trust property in the Midlands including admission, lunch and an exclusive guided tour. The age categories are five to eight years; nine to 12 years or 13-16 years. Entries need to be received by 9 September 2011.

Beccy Speight, National Trust Director for the Midlands, says: “We want our young visitors to share their special moments with us and really capture the spirit of having fun in the great outdoors.

“There’s a vast amount of open countryside and parkland all within easy reach and the majority of families live within 45 minutes of a National Trust site. During the summer holidays we have a huge programme of events and activities to bring the magic of our outdoor spaces alive, to help reconnect people with nature and generate a lifelong passion for the great outdoors.

“We hope that our photography competition will help to create a snapshot of what makes the National Trust in the Midlands so special for so many people.”

Visit: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/midlandsfreshair for a downloadable Midlands summer holiday planner. There are hundreds of activities on offer across the region, from wildlife trails to nature-themed crafts.